Air Abrasion

Air Abrasion Dental Technology

Air Abrasion: Fillings Without the Drill

We offer “air abrasion” which is a drill-less technique to remove tooth decay and for other applications. Air abrasion is the use of sand-like particles and compressed air to remove decay. Air abrasion fillings do not require the drill to remove decay, and often do not require any anasthesia. Air abrasion allows the doctor to very selectively remove decayed tooth structure.

How Does Air Abrasion Work?

Air abrasion is a dental technology that can make your appointments more comfortable. The procedure involves use of a special hand piece that creates a beam of beam of microscopic abrasive particles (silica, aluminum oxide or baking soda) propelled by a gentle stream of dry dry compressed air. By precisely directing the stream onto the flat surfaces of teeth, we can:

Remove small worn out fillings

Eliminate small stains or defects in the surface of the tooth

Clean out cavities

Prepare teeth for fillings and sealants

Is Air Abrasion Safe?

Yes, air abrasion is certainly safe. There are precautions to take for an air abrasion procedure. These include wearing protective eye wear to prevent spray particles getting in the eyes, and using a rubber dam (a rubber sheet that fits around teeth) or protective resin applied to nearby teeth and gums to protect areas of the mouth that are not part of the air abrasion treatment. Suctioning the particles also prevents the lungs from being exposed to particles.

Air Abrasion Advantages?

Air abrasion offers many advantages compared to the traditional drilling methods.

Air abrasion generates no heat, sound, pressure, or vibration.

Air abrasion reduces the need for anesthesia, particularly if the cavity is shallow.

Air abrasion leaves much more of the healthy tooth tissue behind.

Air abrasion leaves the working area relatively dry, which is an advantage during the placement of composite fillings.

Air abrasion reduces the risk of microfracturing and chipping of the tooth, which some experts believe can lead to premature restorative failures.

Air abrasion allows the dentist to treat multiple sites in the mouth during a single visit.

The procedure is relatively simple and quick.

These advantages make the procedure healthy, quiet, and comfortable. Air Abrasion…a wonderful technology that enables us to quickly and comfortably to prepare your teeth for the next step toward a terrific new smile.

Air Abrasion Disadvantages?

Air abrasion is not necessarily totally painless. The air can cause sensitivity and so can the abrasives used.

Air abrasion is not recommended for deep cavities (those close to the tooth’s pulp). It is best suited for removing small cavities that form early on the surface of teeth.

Only composite filling material can be used following air abrasion because it adheres well to the smooth surface created by the air abrasion (amalgam or silver fillings require drill-based cuts to prevent the filling from falling out).

Who Are the Best Candidates for Air Abrasion Procedures?

Air abrasion is ideal for use in children and others who are fearful of dental treatments and have small amounts decay.

What Other Procedures Is Air Abrasion Used For?

Air abrasion can also be used to:

Remove some old composite restorations, but not metallic restorations such as silver amalgam fillings

Prepare a tooth surface for bonding or sealants

Remove superficial stains and tooth discolorations

Does Dental Insurance Pay for Air Abrasion?

Because dental insurance plans and coverage polices vary widely from plan to plan, you would need to contact your dental insurance provider to determine if air abrasion is a covered procedure.

ATA Dental Center offers high quality and affordable dental care for children and adults. From preventative, emergency, cosmetic, pediatric, general, family, to medicaid dental services. We are an emergency dentist in Denver, offering emergency care BY APPOINTMENT, and are here to meet all your emergency dental needs. We offer a unique blend of technologies and caring staff to achieve the best dental experience. When you choose ATA Dental Center, you will find a dental clinic that provides an experience that is as enjoyable as possible. Our facility is conveniently located in downtown Denver, and offer comfortable amenities such as: